| Let's escape the brutal winter we are experiencing here in Milwaukee – and in most of the United States – by remembering the heyday of summer stock tents. There’s a brand-new page on my "Memories of Melody Top" website about a 1978 production of PIPPIN that starred Barry Williams. Click on the link in this message to see production and backstage photos, read newspaper reviews and listen to four songs made from a recording through the venue's sound system. Williams' take on "Corner of the Sky" may be one of the best ever performed, but I also love Alan Weeks' mesmerizing singing of "Magic to Do." Weeks' Broadway career is impressive for his association with hits like THE WIZ and FUNNY GIRL. But he was also in some of the most fascinating flops of the 20th century: THE BODY BEAUTIFUL; HALLELUJAH, BABY!; THE FIG LEAVES ARE FALLING; BILLY; a revue, THAT'S ENTERTAINMENT; ROCKABYE HAMLET; A BROADWAY MUSICAL; OH, BROTHER!; THE TAP DANCE KID; and finally, BIG DEAL. This production of PIPPIN included a scene for The Head (of a fallen soldier), usually cut from current productions of the popular musical, which I may post if there is interest in hearing it. Let me know in your comments… |
